Joint Pain Specialist

What is joint pain?

Joint pain refers to any discomfort or swelling in any of your joints. Your joints form the connection between two or more bones. Though some joints are fixed joints, most of the joints in your body support motion and mobility. 

Your mobile joints are made up of bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and muscles, which all work together to give your joint its full range of motion. Any injury, disease, or condition that affects one or more of the components that make up your joint may lead to joint pain. 

The severity of your discomfort can range from a mild aching sensation after a long day to severe pain that limits your mobility. No matter the severity, joint pain can benefit from an evaluation.

What causes joint pain?

Many conditions cause joint pain. Arthritis, a general term that means inflammation and swelling of a joint, is one of the most common causes. There are many types of arthritis, including:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Psoriatic arthritis
• Gout
• Ankylosing spondylitis
• Reactive arthritis
• Septic arthritis

Joint pain is also a common symptom of autoimmune disorders such as lupus and scleroderma. Your joint discomfort may also develop from chronic health conditions such as fibromyalgia or osteoporosis. 

What happens during a joint pain evaluation?

When you visit Rheumatology of Central Indiana for a joint pain evaluation, you can expect a comprehensive, patient-centered exam. The goal of the evaluation is to find the underlying cause of your discomfort so you get the most effective treatment.

Your provider asks detailed questions about your pain, including the joint or joints involved, when the pain started, and activities that worsen your discomfort. They also review your medical history and perform a physical exam.

Rheumatology of Central Indiana may request diagnostic tests, such as bloodwork or imaging tests, to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. 

How is joint pain treated?

Rheumatology of Central Indiana customizes your joint pain treatment plan based on your diagnosis, the severity of your discomfort, and your preferences. Treatment may include:

• Activity modification
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical or occupational therapy
• Nutritional supplements
• Disease-specific medications
• Joint injections

Depending on the underlying cause of your joint pain, your provider at Rheumatology of Central Indiana may refer you to an orthopedic surgeon to discuss joint replacement. 

For comprehensive care for your joint pain, call Rheumatology of Central Indiana or schedule a consultation using the online booking button today.